Everything they've said is true. Moving to Hong Kong requires substantial compromise. You'll never find everything you want in one locale or even in one housing estate. If you are moving a family, then their requirements must come first, or you won't be living here for long. That may mean a bit of a commute for yourself, but that's life in the big city (or should I say in the suburbs of the big city!) The 3 places you'll want to invest the most time researching are Sai Kung in the New Territories (lovely little town by the sea with mountains, country parks, good mix of local and expats, fairly good transport and above all fresh air, Discovery Bay ( quaint little island development where cars are banned and golf carts rule. There is now a tunnel through to the Tung Chung 'subway' line and the airport, but kids will still have to take a ferry into Hong Kong for school each day. Mainly expats and perhaps a bit too familiar as it is a small community. Thirdly, the south side of Hong Kong, Stanley and Repulse Bay. (A bit more upmarket, but prices have been sliding. Again, great seaviews and maybe a bit isolated. Fairly close to a couple of good international schools including the Canuck one, but you may find that a little above your price range. Have a look around and keep an open mind, but let the family make the call.